Coming Soon: New Pedestrian Crossover Locations
In 2020, 12 new pedestrian crossovers will be installed in the city.
Marked by signs and pavement markings, crossovers are a designated pedestrian crossing in the roadway, usually not at an insection.
What does a crossover look like?
A pedestrian crossover is defined by specific signs and pavement markings, and may also include flashing lights.
What are the rules at a pedestrian crossover?
In January 2016, the Province of Ontario introduced new legislation that requires all drivers and cyclists to stop and yield all lanes of the road to pedestrians at a pedestrian crossover.
Drivers
If a pedestrian is present at a crossover, drivers and cyclists must come to a safe stop until the pedestrian has cleared the entire roadway.
Pedestrians
At a crossover, pedestrians should make eye contact with drivers to ensure they are seen before they cross the road. Cyclists using the crossover should dismount and walk their bike across the road.
Drivers and cyclists who violate this law and do not wait for pedestrian to clear the entire roadway at pedestrian crossovers could be fined up to $1000 and four demerit points.
Learn more about Pedestrian Crossovers here
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is more than just using cell phones for calls or texting. It can include any activity that distracts the driver from safely operating their vehicle such as:
- reading
- watching videos and using other electronic devices
- eating and/or drinking
- smoking
- pets or animals
- children or passengers
- personal grooming
Distracted driving has become a growing concern with the advancement of technology. It recently beat Drinking and Driving as the number one cause of motor vehicle collisions.
Penalties for distracted driving
Did you know that with the passing of Ontario's Bill 31 - Making Ontario's Roads Safer Act the penalties associated with distracted driving have increased?
- Fines are $300 to $1000
- You will lose three demerit points if you are convicted of a distracted driving offense
- Young and novice drivers convicted of any Graduated Licensing System violation are subject to:
- Minimum 30 day licence suspension for a first offence
- 90 day licence suspension for a second conviction
- Third and subsequent instances can lead to the cancellation of their driver's licence and removal from the Graduated Licensing System